Kensington, Minnesota sits in a region characterized by glacial moraines and rolling prairie, with elevations ranging from 1,300-1,400 feet above sea level. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes, with winter temperatures often dropping below zero and summer days reaching the mid-80s. Camping options near Kensington include state parks, county facilities, and private campgrounds where visitors can experience both prairie and woodland environments.
What to do
Paddle on no-wake lakes: At Glendalough State Park Campground, you can enjoy calm waters without motorboat disruption. "Only Tents Allowed--this is the most serene place! They don't allow motor boats on one of the lakes so there is always calm water to canoe, kayak, swim, or paddleboard in," notes a camper.
Explore winter activities: Winter camping options include cross-country skiing at Andes RV Park. "Outstanding trails that they use in the winter time for cross-country skiing with tons of outdoor activities," mentions one visitor. The park also offers tubing when snow conditions permit.
Fishing opportunities: Fish for panfish in the numerous lakes surrounding Kensington. "We saw many deer, caught many pan fish and observed an eagle in its nest," reports a Glendalough visitor. Many campgrounds offer fishing piers or direct lake access.
Hike prairie trails: The region's unique prairie landscape provides distinct hiking experiences. "Beautiful park with rolling prairies. Oak Ridge campground is prettier, quieter, and more private than the Lower campground," explains one visitor to Glacial Lakes State Park.
What campers like
Modern bathroom facilities: Andes RV Park receives consistent praise for its facilities. "Brand new restroom and shower facilities with laundry," states one camper. Another mentions, "Nice, new rv park. Not far off I 94. Spent 1 night, but slept well due to no noise."
Yurt camping options: Yurt camping near Kensington, Minnesota offers a comfortable alternative to tent camping. "My friend & I stayed in their Osprey yurt, and it was perfect for our first camping trip together. I recommend yurts if you're not 100% comfortable with/enjoy staying in a tent," shares a Glendalough State Park Campground visitor.
Lakefront sites: Many campers value waterfront locations. "Nice large campground. There is a lower portion and upper portion with the lower campground being lakefront," explains a visitor to Lake Carlos State Park Campground. Lakefront sites often book quickly, especially during summer.
Cart-in camping: Campers appreciate the quiet atmosphere of cart-in sites. "The tent sites are all cart in, making the scenery the main focus. You don't have to stare at vehicles while you are enjoying a fire, which I love," notes a Glendalough visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal bug activity: Be prepared for insects, particularly in prairie areas. "Site was a bit buggy, but very manageable with bug spray and a Thermacell. The bugs on the hiking trails were unrelenting even with lots of deet bug spray," warns a Glacial Lakes State Park Campground visitor.
Water level variations: Lake levels can change throughout the season. "The lake was really high when we visited, which led to a useless campground fishing pier and a boat dock that you had to swim to to use," reports one Glacial Lakes camper.
Limited shower access: Some campgrounds have shower facilities located far from certain camping areas. "Parking near showers was close to non existent," notes a Glacial Lakes visitor. Another points out, "Would be nice to have showers in the Oak Ridge campground as it's a long walk to the Lower campground."
Tent site considerations: Pay attention to site selection for tents. "Your tent will be on rocks, not grass," mentions one camper at Glacial Lakes State Park. Some sites lack flat spaces or have limited hammock options.
Tips for camping with families
Try cart-in camping: Tipsinah Mounds City Park offers family-friendly amenities. "Restroom and shower facilities onsite, some lakefront campsites and some that are not. Public boat launch, sandy swimming beach, picnic shelters," reports a visitor. The park also has a playground and sports facilities.
Look for family-oriented activities: Many campgrounds offer family-specific programming. "In the afternoon they have a hay ride (without the hay) around the grounds, kids loved it," shares a Tipsinah Mounds visitor.
Consider camper cabins: For families new to camping, cabins provide comfort with outdoor access. "Had a great stay, everything was as expected with a camper cabin. Beautiful park with great trails and a beautiful lake!" notes a visitor to Glacial Lakes State Park.
Bring water recreation gear: Swimming beaches and calm waters make water activities popular. "A basketball court, playground, a nice Sandy beach. Tent sites right by lake. Great for fishing and all types of water sports," explains a Tipsinah Mounds visitor.
Tips from RVers
Reserve early for summer weekends: The limited number of RV sites fill quickly, especially at popular parks. "There are normally no open sites, we are told, as they are all rented for the season," reports a visitor to Lakewood Supper Club.
Check site dimensions: Some campgrounds have limitations on RV size. "We are camping/glamping in 30' fifth wheel. The sites here are spacious and cozy at the same time," notes a Lake Carlos State Park camper. Not all sites accommodate larger RVs.
Look for full hookup options: Available hookups vary by campground. "We decided to try camping in a 30' fifth wheel. This park is outstanding! Friendly service was in the easy check-in and checkout process," shares an Andes RV Park visitor.
Consider seasonal conditions: Year-round camping opportunities exist but with varying amenities. "I stayed here with a few friends in the winter when the park was doing their lantern-lit snowshoe trail. They have 1 site (electric) available in the winter," explains a Lake Carlos camper.
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